Whole Latte Love

To make your own latte art at home, it’s
important to start with whole milk because the fats create a velvety
texture. Also, when steaming milk, hold the pitcher at an angle to
create a swirl.

1. Tilt your cup to one side so that, when you start pouring your steamed milk, it goes underneath the espresso.
2. Once your cup is about 3/4-full, you begin to see the milk form a blob
   on top of the espresso. Pour slowly until the single blob gets larger.
3. Once you get toward the top of the cup, lift the pitcher up and push it
   through the blob of milk, creating the indent of the heart.
4. Remember to hold the handle throughout the entire process, so that
   you’re not touching the parts of the mug from which people will be
   drinking. Enjoy!

Tools of the Trade

• 
  Kettle
  Dowding says a good kettle is key and recommends a Bona Vita kettle, which is affordable and has a narrow spout so water doesn’t get dumped all at once.
• 
  Digital Timer
  The most accurate way to make home-brew coffee so you’re not just guessing.
• 
  Grinder
  A burrs grinder allows you to grind your beans more consistently and won’t dull as fast as a blade grinder.
• 
  Espresso Machine
  Dowding recommends this Rancilio Silvia V3 for its reasonable price and ability to pour the perfect shot and achieve foamy, steamed milk.

Which brewing method is right for you?

Brewing For A Few: French Press

This classic tool allows you to place coffee grounds at the bottom, hot water on the top, brew for four minutes, then plunge.

Brewing For You: Single Pour Over

Dowding recommends a v60 or Bee House coffee dripper for this method. It fits over most coffee mugs.